There are many reasons why yoga feels so good-the stretches relieve tension, the exercise strengthens and tones the body, and the deep breathing increases oxygen levels in the brain, all while creating a great social environment. Some yoga instructors also use essential oils in class, which enhance the ambiance and help students relax. Different oils have different effects, so finding the right combination for you can elevate your practice and make the session feel like a retreat away from the stresses of life.
Some of the most popular essential oil yoga classes utilize eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint and rosemary, which can all be used in a variety of ways. For instance, eucalyptus is refreshing and invigorating and helps clear the airways for deeper breathing during your session. This makes it an ideal choice during the fall and winter months when colds are common. Lavender is soothing and can help alleviate headaches or a migraine. It can be diluted and applied topically to the neck, temples or forehead for these purposes. Peppermint is uplifting and can stimulate the mind. It pairs well with eucalyptus and lavender for a balanced aroma that’s stimulating yet calming. Rosemary is grounding and has cleansing properties that work as an effective disinfectant for mats. It can be mixed with tea tree oil and witch hazel in a spray bottle for a nontoxic cleaning solution to be used on mats before and after classes.
You can also apply essential oils to your wrists or neck and inhale the scent to create a calm, peaceful state of mind and a sense of well being. You can also sprinkle the oil over your mat before practicing to keep it smelling fresh and clean. Alternatively, you can use a homemade DIY spray of equal parts tea tree oil (Melaleuca) and another favorite-smelling EO, such as lemon or lavender, to wipe down your mat after class.
It’s important to note that while essential oils can be incredibly beneficial, it’s not always a great idea to go into a yoga class wearing strong perfumes or scented skincare and beauty products. This is because scents can irritate other people’s sinuses and lead to uncomfortable sensations. In addition, it’s against yogic etiquette to disturb others with your personal habits during class.
For the most beneficial essential oil yoga sessions, make sure your instructor has a solid understanding of how to properly diffuse and apply oils. They should be experienced in using a high quality, organic brand of essential oil. It’s also recommended to bring your own bottle of yoga-friendly essential oils to classes so that you can experiment with what works best for you. With a little patience, you’ll soon be enjoying all the benefits of yoga with an added sensory element.
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